As the U.S. population ages, this career is in high demand. A geriatric nurse is a specialist who will help elderly patients recover from illness or injury by providing practical care and developing patient care plans. Geriatric staff nurses focus on caring for older adults. Geriatric nurses complete many of the same duties and tasks that general care nurses do. What you’ll do: A geriatric nurse cares for the elderly, focusing on the development and implementation of treatment plans for chronic illnesses, including diabetes, hypertension and respiratory disorders.They also educate and counsel families of elderly patients who suffer from acute and chronic conditions. A geriatric nurse focuses their skills and knowledge on elderly patients. A Geriatric Nurse assists doctors in taking care of the mental and physical health of older patients who are at greater risk of injuries and diseases. They may also help with rehabilitation and conduct … Yet less than 1% of registered nurses and 3% of advanced practice registered nurses … As people age, their bodies become less resilient and more prone to health problems. Become a Geriatric Nurse by getting an ADN or BSN and earn an average of $73K-$108K yearly. They need quality medical care from experienced and knowledgeable health professionals like geriatric nurses… They must advocate for the healthcare of their elderly patients and work with them and their families to evaluate which care plan is right for their situation. According to the U.S. Census, by 2050 more than 20% of Americans—88 million people—will be over age 65. The Basics. Discover how Johnson & Johnson empowers nurse … What does a geriatric nurse do?